Technical Abstract:
Quantitative analysis of beta-glucan in oat hydrocolloids such as Oatrim, Nutrim, and C-Trim was performed by using both modified flow-injection analysis (FIA) method and standard AACC enzymatic method. Molecular weight (MW) distribution of beta-glucan was determined using size-exclusion chromatography with the postcolumn detection method. The FIA method makes use of the enhanced fluorescence produced when beta-glucan forms complexes with Calcofluor. Fluorescence intensity of the Calcofluor/beta-glucan complex is strongly dependent on the ionic strength of the solution. The turbidity measurement showed that Calcofluor/beta-glucan complex forms aggregates in the solution and the rate of aggregate formation depends on the MW of beta-glucan and concentration of Calcofluor. Knowing the optimum experimental condition for the modified FIA method, data from this technique was compared with those from the standard enzymatic method. Experimental results from both methods revealed a high coincidence with each other. This result confirms the applicability of either technique for the quantitative evaluation of beta-glucan in hydrocolloids.